Food Safety: Your Ultimate Guide to Storage, Preparation & Cooking

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated August 1, 2022

Food safety is a scientific discipline describing handling, preparation, and storage of food in ways that prevent foodborne illness. This includes a number of routines that should be followed to avoid potentially severe health hazards.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most important things to look out for when it comes to food safety.

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Storing Food: Don’t Let Your Food Go Bad

When it comes to storing food, refrigeration is one of the best ways to maintain its quality and prevent it from getting you sick. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Different foods require different temperatures. Generally, perishable items like meat, poultry, dairy, and produce need to be refrigerated at 40°F or below.
• Use a thermometer to check the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer. Make sure they are set to the right temperature to keep your food fresh.
• Refrigerate perishable items within two hours of purchasing or cooking them. If it’s hot outside, refrigerate within one hour.
• Wrap raw meats securely in plastic or foil to prevent juices from contaminating other foods.
• Keep dairy products tightly sealed and refrigerated to prevent them from going bad.
• Don’t leave perishables out of the refrigerator for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F.
• If you’re not sure if a food is still good, check for mold, an off smell, or a slimy texture. When in doubt, throw it out.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you have food that you won’t be able to eat within a few days, freezing is a good option. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Follow the directions on the package for freezing items.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality.
• Label and date items before putting them in the freezer.
• Freeze items as soon as possible to maintain their quality.
• Pineapple and other fruits can be frozen for up to a year, while ground meats and poultry should be used within three to four months.
• When thawing frozen items, do so in the refrigerator or microwave. Don’t let them sit out at room temperature for too long, as this can allow pathogenic bacteria to grow.

Don’t Neglect Canned Goods

Canned goods are a good option for longer storage, but they still require proper storage to maintain their quality and prevent foodborne illness. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Check canned goods for dents, bulges, or leaks before purchasing. These can present a chance for contamination.
• Store canned goods in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Don’t use canned goods that are past their expiration date or that have been opened and left out for too long.
• Once opened, canned goods should be refrigerated and used within a few days.

By following these practices, you can ensure that your food stays fresh and safe to eat for as long as possible. Don’t let neglect or improper storage lead to wasted food or illness.

Thawing: The Best Ways to Safely Thaw Frozen Foods

Thawing is an essential process that refers to the melting of ice crystals formed during freezing. It is an operation that needs to be performed prior to cooking certain foods. Failure to thaw food properly can lead to ineffective target temperatures during cooking, which can result in the growth of harmful bacteria.

Thawing Tips to Remember

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when thawing frozen foods:

• Always thaw food in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave. Never thaw food at room temperature.

• Never refreeze thawed food unless it has been cooked first.

• Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods in the shopping cart and in the kitchen.

• Always wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw meat, poultry, and seafood.

• Remember that certain foods, such as ground meat and poultry, need to be cooked to a higher internal temperature than others to ensure safety.

Thawing frozen foods is a crucial step in food safety. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your food is safe to eat and free from harmful bacteria.

Preparing Food Safely: Tips and Techniques

Preparing food safely is crucial to prevent foodborne illnesses and poisoning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 48 million people in the United States get sick from contaminated food every year. By following proper food preparation techniques, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from getting sick.

What are the Steps for Safe Food Preparation?

To ensure that your food is safe to eat, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands: Always wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
• Store food properly: Store food in the refrigerator or freezer at the desired temperature to prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Check the expiration date: Make sure to check the expiration date of the food products before using them.
• Prepare vegetables and fruits: Wash and cut vegetables and fruits properly before using them.
• Handle meat carefully: Meat products are more susceptible to contamination, so it’s important to handle them carefully. Separate meat from other foods, use different cutting boards, and cook meat to the appropriate temperature.
• Cook food properly: Cook food to the recommended temperature to kill any bacteria that may be present.
• Serve food safely: Keep hot food hot and cold food cold, and don’t leave food out for too long.
• Practice good hygiene: Keep your kitchen clean and tidy, and avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards for different types of food.

What are Some Common Misconceptions About Food Preparation?

There are several common misconceptions about food preparation that can lead to foodborne illnesses. Here are some of the most common ones:

• You can tell if food is cooked by its color: This is not true. The only way to know if food is cooked properly is to use a food thermometer.
• You can wash bacteria off of meat: Washing meat can actually spread bacteria around your kitchen, making it more likely to contaminate other foods.
• You can’t get sick from raw vegetables: Raw vegetables can also harbor bacteria, so it’s important to wash them properly before eating.

Where Can I Find More Information About Safe Food Preparation?

There are several resources available to help you learn more about safe food preparation. Here are some of the most useful ones:

• The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service offers a guide to safe food handling practices.
• The CDC’s website provides information on foodborne illnesses and prevention.
• Your state or local health department may offer classes or information on safe food handling practices.
• Professional organizations, such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, offer resources and information on safe food preparation.

What are Some Special Tips for Preparing Certain Types of Food?

Different types of food require different preparation techniques to ensure their safety. Here are some special tips for preparing certain types of food:

• Meat: Always cook meat to the appropriate temperature to kill any bacteria that may be present. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for meat to prevent cross-contamination.
• Eggs: Store eggs in the refrigerator and cook them until the yolk and white are firm. Avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs.
• Produce: Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating or cooking them.
• Seafood: Make sure to buy seafood from a reputable source and cook it to the appropriate temperature.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer within two hours of cooking to prevent the growth of bacteria.

How Can I Receive Professional Help with Food Preparation?

If you need help with food preparation, consider reaching out to a professional. Here are some options:

• Hire a personal chef or meal delivery service to prepare your meals for you.
• Take a cooking class to learn new techniques and tips for safe food preparation.
• Consult with a registered dietitian to learn more about nutrition and safe food handling practices.

Separate to Keep Safe

When preparing food, it’s essential to keep certain ingredients separate to prevent harmful contamination. Raw meat, seafood, and poultry can contain harmful bacteria that can spread to other foods, surfaces, and utensils. Cross-contamination can occur when bacteria from one food item is transferred to another, leading to foodborne illness.

How to separate food properly?

To prevent cross-contamination, follow these essential steps:

• Always use separate cutting boards for meat and produce.
• Use different knives and utensils for each type of food.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw meat or seafood.
• Keep raw meat and seafood stored in containers or on plates to prevent any drips or leaks.
• Store meat and seafood on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods.
• Use a slicer or a piece of wax paper to separate meat slices.
• Use a clean cloth to wipe down surfaces and utensils after preparing meat or seafood.
• Don’t wash meat or poultry before cooking, as this can spread harmful bacteria to other areas of the kitchen.

What are the common types of cross-contamination?

Cross-contamination can occur in several ways, including:

• Using the same cutting board or knife for raw meat and vegetables.
• Using the same utensil to stir raw meat and cooked meat.
• Touching raw meat and then touching other foods or surfaces without washing your hands.
• Using the same container or storage bag for raw and cooked meat.

Don’t Get Burned: Cooking Tips for Food Safety

When it comes to cooking meat, it’s important to choose the right type. Ground meats, such as beef, pork, and turkey, are more susceptible to harmful bacteria than whole cuts of meat like roasts or steaks. Lamb and veal should always be cooked to a minimum temperature of 145°F, while poultry should be cooked to 165°F to ensure all harmful bacteria are killed.

Cook Meat Thoroughly

Cooking meat to the right temperature is crucial for food safety. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches the recommended temperature. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before cutting into it to allow the juices to redistribute evenly.

Don’t Cross Contaminate

It’s important to prevent any raw meat from touching other foods, especially those that will be eaten raw. Keep raw meat separate from vegetables and other foods, and use separate cutting boards and utensils.

Extra Tips for Cooking Meat

Here are some extra tips to keep in mind when cooking meat:

• Don’t wash raw meat before cooking it. This can actually spread harmful bacteria around your kitchen.
• Use a meat thermometer to measure the internal temperature of the meat.
• Cook ground meats to an internal temperature of 160°F.
• If you’re barbecuing, use a sauce that’s high in acid to help prevent the growth of bacteria.
• Don’t rely on color alone to determine if meat is cooked properly. Just because it’s no longer pink doesn’t mean it’s fully cooked.

Cooking Eggs

Eggs should always be cooked until the whites and yolks are firm. Avoid eating raw or undercooked eggs, as they can contain harmful bacteria like salmonella.

Keeping Dishes Warm

If you’re holding dishes at a warm temperature, make sure they stay at a temperature of 140°F or higher. Use a thermometer to ensure that the temperature stays consistent.

Keeping Your Kitchen Clean

Keeping your kitchen clean is crucial for preventing the spread of harmful bacteria. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling raw meat.
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods.
• Wash dishcloths and towels frequently in hot water.
• Don’t let dirty dishes pile up in the sink.

Remember, cooking food to the right temperature is the best way to ensure that harmful bacteria are killed. By following these tips, you can help prevent foodborne illness and keep yourself and your family safe.

Don’t Get Burned: Cooking Temperatures Are Key to Food Safety

When it comes to food safety, cooking temperatures are crucial. Proper cooking temperatures help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. Cooking food to the required temperature also helps to destroy any harmful bacteria that may be present in the food.

What Temperatures Are Needed for Different Types of Food

Different types of food require different cooking temperatures to be safe to eat. Here are some common types of food and the minimum internal temperature they need to reach to be considered safe:

• Ground meat (beef, pork, lamb, veal): 160°F
• Whole cuts of meat (beef, pork, lamb, veal): 145°F (allow to rest for 3 minutes before serving)
• Poultry (chicken, turkey): 165°F
• Seafood: 145°F or until flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork
• Eggs: Cook until the yolk and white are firm
• Leftovers: Reheat to 165°F

How to Check the Temperature of Your Food

To ensure that your food has reached the proper temperature, use a food thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the food, making sure not to touch any bones or the cooking utensil. Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Stir chopped foods, such as ground meat, to ensure even cooking
• Cover the dish to help it cook evenly
• Allow meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute
• Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat and the cooking method used

Other Tips for Safe Cooking Temperatures

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when it comes to cooking temperatures:

• Clean all equipment and utensils before starting the cooking process
• Use fresh foods whenever possible
• Follow proper food preparation methods to prevent cross-contamination
• Maintain a consistent cooking temperature throughout the cooking process
• Hold hot foods at a temperature of 140°F or higher
• Double-check that your equipment is calibrated to the correct temperature
• Note that some dishes may require extended cooking times to reach the proper temperature
• Depending on the type of food, the final temperature needed may vary
• High temperatures are needed to kill harmful bacteria, but be careful not to burn the food
• Cold temperatures are needed to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, so make sure to refrigerate foods promptly after cooking and serving

By following these tips and cooking your food to the proper temperature, you can help prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and ensure that your food is safe to eat.

How to Safely Serve Food: Tips and Tricks

When it comes to serving food, selecting the right items can make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you choose wisely:

• Choose fresh, good quality foods that have been stored properly.
• Avoid buying foods that are past their expiration date or have torn packaging.
• If you’re buying raw meat, poultry, or shellfish, make sure it’s stored in a separate bag from other items in your cart.
• When selecting dishes to serve your food in, choose ones that are easy to clean and won’t break easily.
• If you’re serving perishable items like salads or dips, consider using shallow bowls or trays to help maintain a cool temperature.

Preparing and Holding Food Safely

Once you’ve selected your foods and dishes, it’s time to start preparing and holding them safely. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

• Always wash your hands before handling food.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that meat, poultry, and fish are cooked to the proper internal temperature.
• If you’re holding hot foods, make sure they’re kept at a temperature of 140°F or higher.
• If you’re holding cold foods, make sure they’re kept at a temperature of 40°F or lower.
• If you’re serving food outdoors in the summer, consider using a chafing dish or slow cooker to keep hot foods warm.
• If you’re serving food at a restaurant, make sure the dishes you’re using are clean and have been sanitized.
• If you’re holding leftovers, refrigerate or freeze them immediately after they’ve been served.

Serving Food Safely

Finally, it’s time to serve your food! Here are some tips to help you do so safely:

• If you’re serving hot foods, make sure they’re served immediately after they’ve been cooked.
• If you’re serving cold foods, make sure they’re kept on ice or in a refrigerator until they’re ready to be served.
• If you’re serving raw or undercooked meat, poultry, or shellfish, make sure you inform your guests of the risks of food poisoning.
• If you’re serving canned foods, make sure the cans are unopened and not dented or damaged.
• If you’re serving foods with juices, make sure you don’t cross-contaminate them with other foods.
• If you’re serving food in plastic containers, make sure they’re labeled with the date they were stored or frozen.
• If you’re serving food that has been frozen and defrosted, make sure it’s been defrosted in the fridge or under cold running water.
• If you’re using nesting bowls to hold food, make sure you replace the inner bowl with a fresh one every hour to prevent bacteria growth.

Remember, taking precautions when serving food can help prevent food poisoning and keep your guests safe and healthy.

Don’t Let Your Leftovers Go to Waste: How to Ensure Food Safety

Leftovers are a great way to save money and reduce food waste, but they can also be a source of foodborne illness if not handled properly. Here are some tips to ensure the safety of your leftovers:

• Refrigerate or freeze leftovers promptly. Leaving cooked food at room temperature for too long can cause bacteria to grow, making the food unsafe to eat.
• Store leftovers in shallow containers with a lid or loosely covered with plastic wrap. This allows the food to cool quickly and prevents the growth of bacteria.
• Label and date your leftovers. This helps you identify the contents and how long they have been in the refrigerator or freezer.
• Rotate your leftovers. Overstocking your refrigerator can prevent air from circulating properly, leading to uneven cooling and potential spoilage.
• Thoroughly reheat leftovers before eating. Use a microwave, oven, or stovetop to ensure that the food is heated to a safe temperature (165°F for meats and poultry, 145°F for fish, and 135°F for other foods).

Types of Leftovers and How to Handle Them

Different types of foods require different handling to ensure their safety. Here are some tips for specific types of leftovers:

• Meats: Remove any bones and store in a covered container. Broth or gravies should be labeled and dated and stored in a separate container.
• Eggs: Store cooked eggs in a covered container and use within 3-4 days.
• Vegetables: Store cooked vegetables in a covered container and use within 3-4 days. Lettuce and cabbage should be stored dry and wrapped in paper towels to prevent wilting.
• Dairy: Mayonnaise, cream, gelatin, and cheese should be stored in covered containers and used within 3-4 days.
• Slow cooker meals: Store in a covered container and use within 3-4 days. Avoid leaving food sitting in the slow cooker on the “warm” setting for too long, as this can cause bacteria to grow.
• Steaming hot foods: Bring the temperature down to 70°F within two hours and then to 41°F or lower within four hours before refrigerating.

Reheating Leftovers

Reheating leftovers can be tricky, but it’s important to ensure that the food is heated to a safe temperature to prevent foodborne illness. Here are some tips for reheating leftovers:

• Use a microwave, oven, or stovetop to reheat leftovers. Avoid using slow cookers or steam tables for reheating.
• Cover the food to prevent it from drying out and to ensure even heating.
• Stir the food occasionally to ensure that it heats evenly.
• Check the temperature of the food with a food thermometer to ensure that it has reached a safe temperature (165°F for meats and poultry, 145°F for fish, and 135°F for other foods).

Leftovers can be a great way to save time and money, but it’s important to handle them properly to ensure their safety. By following these tips, you can enjoy your leftovers without worrying about foodborne illness.

Conclusion

So, remember to keep your food at the right temperature, use clean utensils, and wash your hands properly, and you’ll be able to enjoy your food without getting sick. 

Also, don’t forget to keep your food fresh with these tips! So, don’t forget to use these tips and tricks when it comes to food safety.

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

Read for free

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.